The Luna Inn stood tall amidst the city of Serendus, its moonstone arches gleaming under the celestial light. The building was a marvel of elven architecture, its corridors stretching like silver threads through a tapestry of stars. King Aethred had extended his hospitality to the travelers, offering them eight rooms, each more lavish than the last. Some overlooked the bustling city, where the night market continued its song of life, while others opened onto the palace gardens, a haven of tranquility under the moon’s serene gaze.

Rhys, ever bold, wrapped an arm around Meryl's waist, pulling her close with a roguish grin. "One room is plenty for us," he declared with a laugh that echoed through the chamber. His eyes shone with mischief, reflecting the light of the moon that poured in through the open balcony.

Aibine stood nearby, her gaze sharp and calculating. Ever the voice of reason, she raised a delicate eyebrow. "And what shall we do with the extra room?" she inquired, her voice like a clear, chiming bell amidst the revelry.

Jesse, youthful and carefree, shrugged. "Leave it be," he replied nonchalantly. "It’s a gift from the King, after all, and it’s ours for five days. Might as well enjoy it."

Keldrin, the statesman of the group, stood with his arms crossed, stroking his silver beard in thought. His eyes, ancient and wise, reflected the stars outside the window. "Three days is not long, young Jesse," he cautioned, his voice a low, rumbling whisper. "We know not what awaits you in the arena."

Yonsil, standing beside him, flicked her braid over her shoulder. Her elven features, sharp and graceful, caught the moonlight, highlighting the subtle silver tint of her hair. As an Eastern elf, she carried an innate sensitivity bestowed by Meilani, the goddess of love—or Eldalia, as she was known in the West. This gift allowed Yonsil a deep connection to emotions, a whispering awareness of the feelings of those destined to be dear to her. It was a power both precious and burdensome.

"We are not in the Badlands nor the North," Yonsil began, her voice confident and clear as the ringing of a blade. "Here in the West, the rights of gladiators are honored. This is no battle to the death. I shall train him well, as a warrior of the East."

A silence settled then, like the hush before dawn. Jacques, who had remained silent until now, nodded in agreement. His gaze was steady, his posture firm. "Indeed," he added, his voice carrying the weight of a command. "Though it is not a fight for life, we cannot afford to be careless. Protect him, Yonsil, and guide him through this trial."

Rhys chuckled, his eyes glinting with a hint of challenge. "A princess of the Rising Realms, are you?" he teased, turning his attention to Yonsil. "Have you seen true battle, or merely danced with blunted blades?"

Yonsil’s chin lifted, pride flashing in her eyes. "I have soared above battlefields on the back of my wyvern, Greenwind," she proclaimed, her hand moving to touch the pendant at her throat, carved in the likeness of a wyvern in flight. "And I have trained under the Wisteria Swords, the finest warriors in all the East!"

Rhys let out a hearty laugh, throwing back his head. "Those dandies?" he scoffed, shaking his head.

Yonsil’s eyes narrowed, a glint of steel in her gaze. "They are warriors of great renown," she retorted, her voice rising with a fierceness that echoed her people’s spirit.

"Enough!" Meryl interjected, stepping between them, with Aibine at her side. Her presence was a calming force, her hands gentle as they touched Yonsil’s shoulders. "We are allies, not rivals," she said softly but firmly, her words carrying the tone of reason.

Yonsil’s posture relaxed, though the fire in her eyes did not fade entirely. A sly smile played upon her lips. "Very well," she conceded. "I shall take the room next to Jesse's, to ensure he remains focused on his training." There was a hint of affection in her voice, a warmth that spoke of the subtle bond she had formed with him.

Jesse, his heart a storm of doubts and anticipation, retreated to his room. The luxurious space, filled with silken drapes and soft feather beds, did little to soothe his anxiety. His mind kept drifting to the upcoming duel. Would he succeed? Could he become the hero he had always dreamed of?

He moved to the writing desk, where elegant stationery awaited him. The act of writing, he hoped, would ease his troubled mind. Dipping the quill into ink, he began to pen a letter to his Aunt Del and Mae, pouring his thoughts and feelings onto the parchment.

To my dearest Aunt Del and Mae,

I hope this letter finds you both well and in good spirits. I'm writing to let you know that I'm alright, though things are a bit... different here in Serendus. It's a far cry from Willowdale, that's for sure! But don't you worry, I can handle myself. I've even got a princess training me for a duel! (It's a long story.)

How is Pepper doing? Is he behaving himself, or is he still chasing squirrels and digging holes in the garden? Give him a good scratch behind the ears for me. I miss that rascal.

I trust all is well in Willowdale? The imp problem is taken care of, as I'm sure you've heard by now. General Cliff probably sent a raven – he loves to boast, that one! I bet he's proud of us, and Rhys too. Speaking of Rhys, he's here with me, and causing quite a stir as usual.

If my name has reached this far, then you've probably heard about my upcoming duel. Don't fret! I'll be fine. Yonsil, the princess I mentioned, is a fierce warrior and she's making sure I'm ready. I just hope I don't embarrass myself too much!

Please give my love to Jessamyn and Mom Ginny. Tell Jessamyn I'm sorry for leaving so suddenly. And tell Mom that she really needs to get some hearing spells from a wizard. She's going to miss all the gossip if she doesn't!

I miss you all terribly and can't wait to see you again. Until then, take care and know that I love you both very much.

With all my love,

Jesse

He continued until the ink dried and he sealed the letter with wax, setting it aside for the morning. Yet, sleep remained elusive. He wandered to the window, the moonlight casting long shadows that seemed to mirror his own fears. His thoughts drifted to Yonsil, her words echoing in his mind. What if he fell? What if he failed?

As the hours slipped away and the moon cast long shadows across the room, a growing sense of unease settled over Jesse. He knew that the coming days would be a trial by fire, a test of his courage and his resolve.

Yonsil, the Eastern elf with her innate sensitivity granted by Meilani, the goddess of love (or Eldalia as she was known in the West), sensed Jesse's unease. It was a gift of her people, this deep connection to their destined love, a subtle awareness that whispered of their soulmate's emotions. Feeling the turmoil within him, she sought to soothe his troubled spirit.

With a gentle knock on the door, she entered his room. "You're still awake?" she inquired, her voice a soft melody in the quiet room.

"Yes, my princess," Jesse replied, a hint of weariness in his voice. "I cannot sleep."

"You need not shoulder everything alone, you know," Yonsil said softly, her eyes filled with understanding.

A soft knock came, and the door creaked open to reveal Yonsil, bathed in the moon’s glow. Her elven features, delicate yet sharp, seemed almost ethereal. “You are still awake?” she asked, her voice a soft melody in the silence.

"Yes," Jesse admitted, his voice strained with the weight of his worries. "I cannot sleep. Too much rests on my shoulders."

Yonsil approached, her gaze filled with a quiet understanding. "Do not bear this burden alone," she said gently, her hand reaching out to touch his arm. The warmth of her touch sent a wave of calm through him.

"I’ve always dreamt of being a hero," he confessed, his voice barely a whisper. "The kind who saves a princess from a far-off kingdom and is cheered by all. But what if I lose? What if I am not that hero?"

Yonsil looked at him, her eyes deep with an ancient wisdom bestowed by Meilani, the goddess of love. "Not everyone can win every time," she replied softly, her voice as steady as the mountains of her homeland. "Only by striving, by taking that chance, can we protect those dearest to us." She placed her other hand over his, a gesture of comfort and strength. "I will protect you, and you shall protect me. We will face whatever comes together."

"They entrusted me to lead this party, to guide them on this quest," Jesse confessed, his voice barely a whisper. "And I'm but a halfling..."

Yonsil smiled gently. "There have been many great halflings in history, Jesse," she reassured him. "Anwrick the Strong, who fought valiantly in the First Age; Lianmu the Beloved, Empress of the Middle Kingdom; and Kojiro Noba, the thumb-sized swordsman whose legend echoes through the ages."

"I... I don't know some of those legends," Jesse admitted, a flicker of curiosity in his eyes. "But my Aunt Delphie always said Anwrick's blood runs through my veins."

"See?" Yonsil exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. "You may become a legend like him, and I'll be there to witness your rise, to be with you all the way."

A blush crept onto Jesse's cheeks. "You think so?" he murmured, still grappling with self-doubt. "I still don't believe in that myth about all Eastern elves being seers."

"Some are," Yonsil confirmed, her voice hushed. "But they can only see the one they will love."

"So, not the future?" Jesse clarified.

A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

"The future is unchangeable in some ways," Yonsil explained, "but we cannot truly see it. It remains shrouded in mystery, even to usAh, my apologies! I seem to be having some trouble keeping track of the time. Let me adjust the scene to reflect the nighttime setting.

"I still can't sleep," Jesse confessed, his voice a hushed whisper in the darkened room. The only light came from the moon shining through the window, casting long, dancing shadows across the walls.

A comfortable silence settled between them, broken only by the soft crackling of the dying embers in the fireplace. Then, with a mischievous glint in her eyes, Yonsil whispered, "Let's go outside, then. If you still can't sleep, a moonlit stroll might do you good. The falling maple and Moon Plum leaves shimmer like silver in the moonlight, and Serendus is even more magical at night."

"Is there a curfew?" Jesse asked, a hint of concern in his voice. "They are in the midst of a civil war, after all."

Yonsil shook her head, her silver hair catching the moonlight streaming through the window. "None that we need worry about. Only the provinces and the mountains have been attacked by Bruin. They contacted us for aid, remember?"

Reassured, the two of them quickly dressed and crept out of their rooms, careful not to disturb the others. The common room of the Luna Inn was still abuzz with activity, the sounds of laughter and music spilling out into the hallway. Outside, however, the city was cloaked in a peaceful silence, broken only by the occasional hoot of an owl or the distant barking of a dog.

"We only have 189 silver crowns," Jesse murmured, a touch of worry creasing his brow. "And we're staying up late. We still need to train tomorrow."

Yonsil gently took his hand, her touch sending a comforting warmth through him. "You can't sleep if you worry too much," she said softly, leading him towards a small, dimly lit restaurant. "Here, eat. This tomato pasta is a local specialty, and it might help settle your mind."

Jesse, famished and somewhat embarrassed by his earlier anxieties, eagerly dug into the delicious pasta. He couldn't help but laugh at Yonsil's gentle teasing, the mood between them light and carefree.

"You know," Yonsil confessed, her eyes sparkling in the dim light, "I could get used to seeing you smile like that."

"And I could get used to you eating," Jesse retorted playfully, a grin spreading across his face.

They continued their late-night adventure, exploring the quiet streets and sampling various treats from the few stalls still open. They tried pickled plums, a tangy explosion of flavor that reminded Jesse of home, and dried ones, chewy and sweet. The city, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight, held a different kind of magic, and they found themselves enchanted by its beauty and the quiet intimacy of their shared experience.

They eventually stumbled upon a hidden gem: a secluded garden nestled near the gently flowing Serendus River. Moon Plum trees, their branches laden with luminous fruit, intertwined with Sun Plum trees, their golden orbs glowing softly in the moonlight. The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of blossoms, and the gentle murmur of the river created a soothing symphony.

"This is beautiful," Jesse breathed, his eyes wide with wonder.

Yonsil smiled, taking in the serene scene. "It is, isn't it? Let's dip our feet in the water. It's said to bring good luck."

They removed their shoes and stockings, the cool grass tickling their feet as they stepped onto the riverbank. The water was refreshingly cool, and Jesse couldn't help but splash playfully, sending shimmering droplets into the air. Yonsil laughed, her voice like the tinkling of bells, and joined in the playful game.

As they waded deeper into the river, a sudden wave of dizziness washed over Jesse. Images flashed through his mind, vivid and unsettling: a halfling hero and an elf princess, deeply in love, their happiness shattered when the princess chose a mortal human king instead. He stumbled, his hand reaching out to steady himself against Yonsil.

"Jesse? What's wrong?" Yonsil asked, concern etched on her face.

"I... I saw something," he stammered, his voice trembling. "A vision, I think. A halfling hero... and an elf princess named... Iriel." He looked at Yonsil, his eyes wide with confusion. "Why did I call you Iriel?"

Yonsil's expression softened. "It was just a vision, Jesse. Perhaps a story from long ago. Come, let's sit on the bank."

They settled on the grassy bank, the water lapping gently at their feet. Jesse, still shaken by the vision, found himself drawn to Yonsil's calming presence. They talked about Willowdale, about the halfling tradition of celebrating birthdays with feasts and games.

"Elves never celebrate birthdays," Yonsil explained. "We live too long for them to hold much meaning."

"How old are you?" Jesse asked, curiosity piqued.

"Three hundred," Yonsil replied with a smile.

"Older than my mom, Ginny!" Jesse exclaimed. "But you're still so... beautiful."

Yonsil blushed. "If you wish, I can tell you the story of Iriel," she offered. "There's more to it than your vision revealed."

"Is it a sad story?" Jesse asked, hesitant. "Because it would ruin the mood. I like it here with you, just like this."

He felt a shift in the atmosphere, a subtle tension that spoke of unspoken feelings. He sensed that Yonsil's affection for him ran deeper than mere friendship, but he yearned for confirmation.

"You won't know unless you hear it," Yonsil said softly.

jess tells yonsil about his worry of the upcoming fight what if he losses? You know i've always wanted to be a hero of a story. where i save a princess from a far off kingdom and they cheer for me

yonsil tells him not everybody can win everytime she says

and then adds only by trying and betting on a chance can we make sure to protect those dearest to us.

I'll no we'll protect each other no matter what.

"If I fall someday," Jesse asked, his voice barely a whisper, "would you be there to see it?"

Yonsil's eyes met his, her gaze filled with a depth of emotion that took his breath away. "You will not fall, Jesse," she said firmly. "And I won't let anything harm you." She gently tapped his forehead with her finger, a gesture both playful and reassuring.

"It's time to go to bed," Jesse said, a yawn escaping his lips.

"Let's stay a little longer," Yonsil pleaded. "Just to stare at the beauty of the moon."

Jesse, lulled by the peaceful atmosphere and Yonsil's presence, soon drifted off to sleep. Yonsil, with a soft smile, began to hum a lullaby, her voice weaving a spell of tranquility around him

yongsun sang this lullaby

(Verse 1)

The city sleeps, the world is still,

But in my heart, emotions thrill.

Your presence near, a guiding light,

Chasing away the lonely night.

(Chorus)

Eyes on me, my love, my dear,

Draw close to me, hold me near.

In your embrace, I find my peace,

A love so deep, it will not cease.

(Verse 2)

The fate may weave a tangled thread,

But with you by my side, I'll forge ahead.

Our hearts entwined, our souls alight,

Together we'll face the darkest night.

(Chorus)

Eyes on me, my love, my dear,

Draw close to me, hold me near.

In your embrace, I find my peace,

A love so deep, it will not cease.

(Bridge)

The whispers of doubt, they fade away,

As your love shines brighter every day.

In your eyes, I see a future bright,

Filled with passion, joy, and light.

(Chorus)

Eyes on me, my love, my dear,

Draw close to me, hold me near.

In your embrace, I find my peace,

A love so deep, it will not cease.

(Outro)

Let the world fade, let time stand still,

As we lose ourselves in love's sweet thrill.

With every beat, my heart will say,

I'll love you more than words can say.

. Gently, she lifted him onto her back, surprised by his weight.

"Oof! You're heavier than you look," she chuckled.

"Hey, I'm supposed to be the one carrying you!" Jesse mumbled sleepily.

"I'll do it just this once," Yonsil whispered, her voice filled with affection. "But tomorrow, you have to carry me."

And so, under the watchful gaze of the moon and the silent stars, Yonsil carried Jesse back to the Luna Inn, her heart filled with a love that transcended the boundaries of race and time.

The party stirred from their slumber to the familiar crowing of chickens, the clear notes mingling with the low, rumbling growls of Mel Guar and Bal Gog—the direwolves. Their eyes slowly opened to the golden rays of dawn spilling through the creaky shutters of the Luna Inn, casting a warm glow over the weathered wooden floors. A faint smell of hay and damp earth filled the air, a reminder of the rural landscape that cradled the small settlement.

In the common room, a humble feast awaited them: scrambled eggs, their golden fluffiness gleaming in the early light; apples, red and green, with their skins polished to a fine sheen; steaming sausages, their savory aroma mingling with the warmth of fresh-baked wheat bread. Plates clattered softly as the innkeeper's daughters served the meal with quiet efficiency, the scent of breakfast drifting through the inn like a promise of strength for the journey ahead.

Keldrin, the half-elf ranger, tended to their mounts outside the inn. His nimble fingers brushed the manes of Fervia and Birds, the horses whickering softly in response. After a quick feed of oats and apples, he set out to walk the direwolves, their paws padding silently against the dewy grass as he led them through the morning mist, which hung like a silken veil over the fields.

Jacques, the taciturn warrior of the group, gathered them in his modest room after breakfast, where the scent of iron and old leather clung to every corner. The room was small, with a narrow window that barely let in the light, casting long shadows over the group. Yongsun greeted Jess with a warm, radiant smile, her eyes twinkling like stars against the soft, pearlescent glow of her skin. Jess, ever the shy one, averted his gaze, his face flushing a shade that matched the rosy blush of dawn.

Aibine, the elf elementalist, stood silently to the side, her sharp eyes narrowing as she observed the brief exchange. Her lips curled ever so slightly, a knowing look in her gaze, sensing that something unspoken had passed between the two. She said nothing, though a small, secret smile played at the corner of her mouth.

“Steaks and hamburgers!” Rhys exclaimed suddenly, his boisterous voice breaking the quiet tension. The burly warrior clapped his hands together, his eyes gleaming with hunger. "How about it? A hearty meal for the road!"

Meryl, his companion and the one who tempered his reckless spirit, laid a gentle hand on his arm. "Save the heavy meals for another day, love. We’ll need to be quick on our feet when we reach the Frogfolk village at three." Her voice was soft but firm, carrying a wisdom that often kept Rhys’s enthusiasm in check.

Jacques cleared his throat, his tone gruff as he spoke. "Three days should be enough for us to prepare," he said, leaning back against the room's rickety table. His gaze swept over the group, his eyes sharp and calculating.

Jess shifted his weight, hesitant, yet knowing what must come next. "We'll have to train today," he said, his voice quiet but resolute. "Can you handle the goblin scouts this morning?"

A spark lit Jacques's eyes, and a slow, confident smile crept across his lips. "Easy," he replied. "But I'll be using my axe this time, not magic. It's been too long since I've felt its weight in my hands." He gave a small, almost nostalgic pat to the haft of the weapon slung across his back, its polished steel gleaming dimly in the morning light.

"Keldrin's gone to scout the area surrounding the abandoned molemen village," Aibine added, her voice calm and measured. "We should have a good view of the terrain before we venture out."

“We still have some time before we set off,” Yonsil chimed in, her tone light as a breeze. She turned to Jess with a mischievous smile. "I’ll have you fight with the others today. You need the practical training as well."

"No," Jacques interjected, a hint of concern creeping into his voice. "I'd rather have him rest. Leave the grunts to us."

Yonsil shook her head but said nothing further, her lips set in a determined line. Jacques sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose before turning to Rhys and Meryl. "You two, see if you can get our old gear repaired," he instructed, his eyes hardening. "Olm gave us good equipment, but we need spares, and it's cheaper to fix what we already have. We don't know how many more fights lie ahead, and I don't want our weapons breaking at a critical moment."

Meryl nodded, her gaze steady as she glanced at Rhys. "We'll see to it," she affirmed, her voice carrying the unyielding resolve of someone used to braving hardship.

Reluctantly, Jess gave a nod, understanding the necessity though apprehensive of the coming battle.

Aibine, ever perceptive, caught Jacques’s eye. "Come with me," she said softly. "We'll meet with our friends to discuss the gold. Keldrin's already scouting ahead." There was an unspoken trust in her words, and Jacques, despite his reservations, nodded in agreement.

Yonsil suddenly grabbed Jess’s hand, her grip firm and warm. "You'll have to carry me to the training grounds," she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Rhys let out a bark of laughter. "Is this part of the training?" he called after them, his grin wide as a fox's. But Yonsil and Jess hurried off, her laughter trailing behind them like a melody on the wind.

As the pair disappeared from view, Meryl shook her head with a fond smile. "Young love," she murmured, her voice tinged with both nostalgia and hope for what lay ahead.